Featured Review - Bremner Sshhmute

I tried a new practice mute today called the ssshhhmute, designed and distributed by Bremner Music. I have owned a series of different practice mutes through the years (Humes/Berg, Peacemaker, etc.) I have not found a practice mute that has met my needs (small kids sleeping). I was suspect on the ssshhhmute, but went ahead and tried it out. Here’s what I found using my Getzen 3051 (trumpet), Bach Strad 180S, and my Getzen 3850 (cornet) during the past week with the Trumpet model of the practice mute.

Tone (9/10)
As with any mute, I am wondering how a mute sounds in my actual use. This mute played a little flat (not sure if this was the horns I play), compared to some other mutes I’ve used. The sound was full (or as full as you would expect from a practice mute), and was loud enough that you can open up, and hear your tone. Although a little flat in mid/upper registers – it was relatively minor, and something that I easily corrected for. Based upon the sound/volume of sound out of this mute, I think this mute has a very good combination for trumpet players.

Sound/Volume (10/10)
This was my big question. Can I get a good tone (see above), and still maintain a lower sound volume. Tried this mute out at home, and also at a local practice with the entire trumpet/cornet section (10 of us), and all felt it was a very quiet practice mute. Compared to the Humes/Berg, Peacemaker, and even a Stealth mute (not sure of the mfg.) – this mute is best in class compared. The closest was the Stealth, and much better than the H/B. Overall a very good “quiet” mute that also played in tune. (what a combination)

Quality/Construction (10/10)
The mute is made of ABS thermoplastic, and has a nice, high gloss surface. The bottom is yellow, and is joined together in a high quality manner (no glue, scratches, like on some other plastics mutes I’ve owned).

Other (10/10)
I was surprised by the carry bag that came with the mute itself. Very professional, and I think will keep the mute from getting damaged, beat up in my case with all of the other mutes I carry. The soft bag is black, and has a yellow draw string. Very nice, high quality bag.

Overall/Value (9.5/10)
At $38. dollars for a trumpet practice mute, it is right in the same range as other practice mutes I’ve owned (except for the Humes/Berg – but it didn’t work). I would recommend you try this mute in your search for a “great” practice mute. Not the most common to find mute out there, but can order via PayPal. My shipment came within 3 days from Australia (amazing). The packaging was a little light, but it came absolutely perfect, with no damage. A good practice mute worth checking into!

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